Family Reunification via Registered Partnership
Same-sex registered partners of Swiss citizens or permit holders joining them in Switzerland.
The Family Reunification via Registered Partnership is a Swiss family & partner visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~CHF 65-150 cantonal fee (plus D visa where required)) and processing time (~8-12 weeks), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Family Reunification via Registered Partnership is for
Same-sex registered partners of Swiss citizens or permit holders joining them in Switzerland.
Same settlement pathway as spousal reunification (C permit, typically after 5 years).
Family Reunification via Registered Partnership - eligibility criteria
- Valid registered partnership recognised in Switzerland
- Sponsor holds Swiss citizenship or a qualifying permit
- Suitable accommodation
- Adequate income without reliance on welfare (non-EU)
Family Reunification via Registered Partnership cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Family Reunification via Registered Partnership (Switzerland) is ~CHF 65-150 cantonal fee (plus D visa where required), with an indicative processing time of ~8-12 weeks. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at State Secretariat for Migration (SEM).
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Sponsor applies to the canton; D visa abroad for non-EU partners |
| Length of stay | Matches the sponsor's permit, renewable |
| Work rights | Generally full work rights once granted |
| Study rights | Permitted |
| Government fee | ~CHF 65-150 cantonal fee (plus D visa where required) |
| Processing time | ~8-12 weeks |
| Route to PR | Same settlement pathway as spousal reunification (C permit, typically after 5 years). |
Pathway & next steps
Same settlement pathway as spousal reunification (C permit, typically after 5 years).
Many applicants also compare Family (Spouse) · Family Reunification - Spouse / Registered Partner, Family (Child) · Family Reunification - Children, Facilitated · Swiss Citizenship - Simplified Naturalisation. Run a free VisaChief check to see which Swiss route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Family Reunification via Registered Partnership pitfalls we fix
Family Reunification via Registered Partnership - frequently asked questions
How much does the Family Reunification via Registered Partnership cost?
The Family Reunification via Registered Partnership government fee is ~CHF 65-150 cantonal fee (plus D visa where required). Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) before applying.
How long does the Family Reunification via Registered Partnership take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~8-12 weeks. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Family Reunification via Registered Partnership lead to permanent residence?
Same settlement pathway as spousal reunification (C permit, typically after 5 years).
Can I work on the Family Reunification via Registered Partnership?
Work rights: Generally full work rights once granted.
Who can apply for the Family Reunification via Registered Partnership?
Same-sex registered partners of Swiss citizens or permit holders joining them in Switzerland.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Switzerland government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) - official Switzerland immigration authority